Halfway between Poznań and Gniezno, there is a unique place on the Piast Trail – Pobiedziska Stronghold. It’s a modern reconstruction of an early medieval fortified settlement from the times of the Piast dynasty. The stronghold features a moat crossed by a bridge, a solid wooden palisade, and, of course, a fortified gate with a watchtower. Yet it isn’t a museum but a medieval amusement park!
What awaits inside may come as a surprise. Instead of houses or other buildings, you’ll find an exhibition of medieval siege machines. Visitors can see a trebuchet (a type of catapult), a battering ram, an albarest (large crossbow) and a siege tower. Most importantly, all the replicas are fully functional, and you can try firing a trebuchet or a crossbow yourself (under the supervision of the stronghold’s staff). The stronghold also hosts archery tournaments and activities for organized groups.
This place is the work – and the dream come true – of Bartosz Styszyński, who currently holds the title of comes of the stronghold. He’ll eagerly guide you around and share many fascinating stories with you.
